More than 500 people gather in Benidorm to support cancer charity at unforgettable summer fundraiser

More than 500 people gathered in Benidorm for an evening of generosity, friendship and hope as the city’s annual Anémona Summer Charity Dinner once again proved the strength of community support for those affected by breast and gynaecological cancer.

Held at the historic Ermita de Sanz, the popular event brought together residents, volunteers, businesses and local leaders for one of the charity’s biggest fundraising occasions of the year. The dinner has become a much-loved fixture in Benidorm’s social calendar, combining entertainment and fundraising with an opportunity to recognise the people who make Anémona’s work possible.

The funds raised will help the association continue providing support services for women and their families, while also contributing towards cancer research.

Supporting women through every stage

Anémona has spent years offering emotional, psychological and practical support to women diagnosed with breast and gynaecological cancers in Benidorm and the surrounding Marina Baixa area.

Through counselling, workshops, group activities and rehabilitation programmes, the organisation helps people navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives while ensuring that nobody has to face a cancer diagnosis alone.

The charity relies heavily on fundraising events and the generosity of the local community to continue offering these services free of charge.

A night of recognition and gratitude

Among those attending the dinner were Benidorm mayor Toni Pérez and the president of the Diputación de Alicante, Juanfran Pérez Llorca, who both praised the dedication of Anémona’s volunteers and highlighted the association’s positive impact on countless families.

Anémona president María Botella thanked everyone who attended, as well as the volunteers, sponsors and supporters whose commitment enables the charity to continue its work throughout the year.

She also acknowledged the many people who give their time behind the scenes, saying the success of events like the summer dinner is only possible because of the collective effort of the local community.

During the evening, young designer Marina López was recognised for creating the artwork featured on this year’s charity walk T-shirt and received a bouquet of flowers in appreciation of her contribution.

Guests also enjoyed raffles and prize draws, with proceeds helping to fund the charity’s programmes and future initiatives.

Benidorm’s generosity on full display

The impressive turnout once again demonstrated Benidorm’s reputation for rallying behind local causes.

While the city is best known internationally for its beaches and tourism, events like the Anémona Summer Charity Dinner reveal another side of Benidorm: one built on compassion, volunteering and neighbours supporting neighbours.

With more than 500 people filling the Ermita de Sanz, the evening served as a powerful reminder that behind every fundraising ticket, raffle prize and donation is a shared commitment to helping local women and their families through some of life’s toughest challenges.

For Anémona, the event was more than just a successful fundraiser; it was another example of how a community can come together to make a genuine difference.